Poon Hill Trek 7 Days Itinerary And Cost

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Useful Info

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

Useful Info

FAQs

Overview

Poon Hill Trek is an incredible journey that offers unparalleled views of awe-inspiring vistas of the Annapurna Region. It has constantly captured the attention of travelers because of its enchanting and pristine natural beauty. Poon Hill Trek is considered ideal for those who are looking for a short trek that offers breathtaking and panoramic views of the snow-clad peaks. The relatively less challenging route is suitable for all age groups of travelers and is the perfect choice for families searching for a journey that offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and rich cultural experiences.

The top of Poon Hill rewards you with a mesmerizing view of majestic snow-capped peaks such as Annapurna I (8091 m), Annapurna South (7219 m), Annapurna II (7937 m), Dhaulagiri (8167 m), Machhhapuchhre (6993 m), and many more surrounding peaks. The early morning hike to Poon Hill (3210 m) to witness the majestic sunrise and panoramic views of the iconic slow-clad peaks is one of the key highlights of the trek. Passing through the charming traditional Gurung and Magar villages, you can get insights into the rich local culture of the region. The well-marked trails, quality lodging facilities, and warm hospitality of locals have enhanced the experiences of the trekkers.

The 7-day Poon Hill Trek takes you to the most wonderful scenic spots, where you will traverse through tranquil pathways, lush forests, and stone-paved stairs. The peaceful surroundings of the Annapurna Region give you a chance to immerse in the serenity of nature.

During this extraordinary journey, you will get a chance to explore beautiful villages like Tikhedhunga, Ulleri, and Ghorepani, which are famous for offering stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. The trek is also popularly known as Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek. It is one of the most prominent trekking destinations in Nepal that rewards trekkers with spectacular views of the unique landscapes of the Annapurna Region.

When is the best time to embark on Poon Hill Trek?

poon hill

Among the four seasons in Nepal i.e Summer/ Monsoon. Spring, Autumn and Winter, the Spring and Autumn are considered the best times for trekking. While going on any trek, it is important to choose a time with stable weather and good visibility.

During the Spring (March, April, and May), the atmosphere is vibrant as the landscape is decorated with beautiful blooming rhododendrons. There is little to no rainfall during the spring season, which results in drier trails, and it makes traversing easier. The stable weather and favorable temperature make the whole environment refreshing. You can witness the unparalleled beauty of the majestic peaks in the spring season. So, if you are looking for a season where you can get maximum perks. The spring season can be the perfect time to embark on the trek.

Another good time to embark on the journey is the autumn season (September, October, and November). During the autumn season, the environment is pleasant, and the leaves turn into vibrant shades of colors. The surroundings are clear washed by the rain of the preceding monsoon season, which creates a delightful atmosphere for the trekkers. The temperature is mild, which creates a favorable walking condition for trekking. The skies are cloud-free, and you can get an unobstructed view of the beautiful mountains. The crystal clear view of the mountains makes the whole journey charming.

The region is cold during the winter season (December, January, and February) and goes below the freezing point. Trekking in winter requires a lot of preparation. You will need to be dressed in layered clothes, and your backpack might feel heavy, so you need to pack extra clothes. The chances of rainfall are low, and there are fewer clouds in the sky, so the enchanting views of the snow-covered peaks are visible during the winter. It is an off-season period, so you can get a chance to trek in the tranquil winter environment. Some paths may be covered with snow, so you need to be a bit more careful while walking.

During the summer/ monsoon season (June, July, and August), trekking is relatively challenging as the trails might be slippery and muddy due to the heavy downpours. Besides, the presence of leeches along the trail causes discomfort for the travelers. However, due to the rainfall, the vegetation gets nourished and you can get to see the lush greenery. After the rainfall, the spectacular views of the mountains can be seen during the summer/monsoon season.

Each season has something different to offer, so selecting a season when the environment is pleasant and visibility is excellent is a wise decision.

Highlights of Poon Hill Trek

Walk across the beautiful maize and millet farms.
Mesmerizing views of sunrise from Poon Hill.
Explore Gurung and Magar Villages along the way.
Cross the suspension bridges along the trail.
Explore the beautiful Ghandruk Museum.
Stunning views of Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, Machhapuchre, Nilgiri, Tukuche, and many more peaks.
A chance to walk through the protected Annapurna Conservation Area.
A chance to explore the rich culture and tradition of the region.

Day 1 :

Kathmandu to Pokhara (Drive or Fly)

Kathmandu Elevation: (1,400m/ 4,600 ft)

Pokhara Elevation: (827m/ 2713ft)

On the first day of your journey, you will be heading towards Pokhara from Kathmandu. You can reach Pokhara either by tourist bus or by taking a plane. It takes about 6 to 7 hours to reach Pokhara by bus. If you take a flight, it will take almost 25 minutes to reach Pokhara. The tour starts early in the morning, and our representative will come to receive you at your hotel. If you take a bus, we will directly move towards Pokhara. The journey is exhilarating. As you leave the bustling Kathmandu valley, you will notice the changes in the scenery. The beautiful green hills, lush forests, and settlements along the way make your journey engaging.

Similarly, if you decide to take a flight, we will drop you off at the airport from where you will take a flight. The 25-minute flight will be as scenic, offering you enchanting views of the towns, verdant hills, and snow-capped peaks. Pokhara is one of the most beautiful and popular tourist spots in Nepal. You can explore the beautiful lakeside area of Nepal and stroll around the vibrant streets, which will make you feel refreshed. Your overnight stay will be at a hotel in Pokhara.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2 :

Drive from Pokhara to Nayapul and Trek to Tikhe Dhunga

Pokhara Elevation:(827m/ 2,713ft)

Nayapul Elevation: (1,070m/3,510ft)

Tikhe Dhunga Elevation: (1,540m/5,052ft)

Trek Duration: 4 to 5 hours

On this day, you will start your journey with an exhilarating drive from Pokhara to Nayapul, which takes around 1.5 hours. The trek will officially start on day 2 as you cover the distance by walking towards Tikhe Dhunga. You will cross many suspension bridges throughout the trail. The trail passes through Modi Khola, many small villages nestled amidst the green hills. Most of the sections of this trail are flat, which makes the trek relatively easier. After walking for about 4 to 5 hours, you will finally make it to Tikhe Dhunga. After you reach Tikhe Dhunga, you can settle in the teahouse and have an amazing meal prepared by the hosts. Staying overnight at Tikhe Dhunga will provide you with much-needed recharge.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 :

Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani

Tikhe Dhunga Elevation: (1,540m/ 5052 ft)

Ghorepani Elevation : (2,860m/ 9,383ft)

Trek Duration: 6 to 7 hours

On day 3 of your journey, you will start your early in the morning after breakfast. You will walk through many village settlements with beautiful views of lush hills along the trail. Crossing the suspension bridges can be an exhilarating experience for you. The scenery of beautiful waterfalls falling freely along the way will add further charm to your journey.

On this day, you will be climbing many stone-paved stairs of the Ulleri village along with stunning views of the mountains. During the spring, the forests are full of rhododendrons blooming, which makes the whole surrounding vibrant. Passing through the beautiful Ulleri, Banthanti, and Nangge Thanti Village, you will finally reach Ghorepani. It takes around 6 to 7 hours to arrive in Ghorepani from Tikhedhunga. You can then settle in a teahouse, rest your bags in your room, get refreshed, and have a delicious meal prepared by the hosts.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 :

Hike from Ghorepani to Poon Hill for Sunrise View and Trek to Tadapani

Ghorepani Elevation: (2,860m/ 9,383 ft)

Poon Hill Elevation: (3,210 m/ 10,531 ft)

Tadapani Elevation: (2,630m/ 8,628 ft)

Trek Duration: 5 to 6 hours

On the fourth day of your journey, you will hike from Ghorepani to Poon Hill. You will wake up early in the dawn to see the amazing sunrise from the top of the viewpoint. The sight of the sun rising is mesmerizing to witness. The magical moment will fill you with awe. The mesmerizing views of the Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Gangapurna, Machhapuchhre, and HiunChuli can be seen from the top, which will add further charm to your journey. After viewing the sunrise and witnessing the stunning peaks, you will head back to Ghorepani, where you will have a fulfilling breakfast.

After a hearty and fulfilling breakfast, you will trek to Tadapani. The trail passes through a series of dense forests and small villages. You will come across many water streams along the trail. You will hike up and down in many sections of the trail. As you reach Tadapani, you will see the teahouses and many colorful flags, which make the whole environment beautiful. Your overnight stay will be at a teahouse in Tadapani.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 :

Tadapani to Ghandruk

Tadapani Elevation: (2,630m/ 8,628ft)

Ghandurk Elevation : (1,940m/6,364ft)

Trek Duration: 3 to 4 hours

After having breakfast in your teahouse, you will walk towards Ghandruk. Ghandruk is a popular tourist destination where you can also explore the beautiful villages and museums. The trail to Ghandruk is relatively easier, and the trek duration is also shorter. You will walk through many flat sections on this day. You will pass through the lush forests and see many waterfalls along the way. After trekking for almost 3 to 4 hours, you will finally reach Ghanduk village. You can explore the Ghandruk Village and observe the Gurung Culture. Exploring the Ghandruk museum, you will get a chance to learn about the traditional lifestyle and see the utensils and weapons that were used in the past. While you are in Ghandruk, you can try wearing the traditional Gurung Dress and take photographs, which will be a unique experience for you. You can also witness the mesmerizing views of Machhapuchre and Annapurna South, which adds an extra touch of beauty to this picturesque village. On the fifth day of your journey, you will be staying in Ghandruk.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 :

Trek from Ghandruk to Nayapul and Drive to Pokhara

Ghandruk Elevation:(1,940m/6,364ft)

Nayapul Elevation: (1,070m/3,510ft)

Pokhara Elevation: (827m/ 2,713ft)

Trek Duration: 5 hours

Day 6 is the last day where you will be covering the distance from walking. After having breakfast in the early morning, you will start your trek from Ghandruk to Nayapul. The trail passes through charming villages, terraced fields, lush hills, and mesmerizing views of snow-capped peaks. Crossing the beautiful water streams and suspension bridges, hiking down, and witnessing the beautiful Modi River, you will finally arrive in Nayapul. After arriving in Nayapul, you will drive back to Pokhara. The drive is scenic, and you will be rewarded with beautiful views of the green hills and forests. Your overnight stay will be in Pokhara.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 :

Pokhara to Kathmandu (Drive or Fly)

Pokhara Elevation:(827m/ 2,713ft)

Kathmandu Elevation: (1,400m/ 4,600 ft)

Pokhara is a picturesque city, and exploring the city in the early morning will add extra charm to your journey. You can explore the beautiful Phewa Lake in the morning as the surroundings of the lake look ethereal. Driving back to Kathmandu from Pokhara takes about 6 to 7 hours. The drive is scenic, and you can witness the beautiful views of the hills, highways, and varied landscapes. Similarly, The flight from Pokhara to Kathmandu is short, but the views of the mountains and hills are stunning. Taking the flight will save you a lot of time as you can land in Kathmandu in about 25 minutes. You will stay overnight in a hotel in Kathmandu.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Useful Info

What to expect on Poon Hill Trek?

Let’s learn about the experiences of one of our clients who embarked on this incredible journey with us.

Hiroshi Mori (Japan)

I was looking for an itinerary that completely suits my time frame and walking pace. After surfing on the internet, I found Mount Fuji Adventure. The itinerary completely matched my time frame, and it included all the special attractions that I was looking for. Viewing the mesmerizing sunrise from Poon Hill and exploring the Ghandruk Village has always been my dream. I contacted Mount Fuji Adventure to make further inquiries. They were attentive to my every query and answered everything in detail. Then, I decided to trek to Poon Hill with Mount Fuji Adventure.

My journey started with an adventurous drive from Kathmandu to Pokhara. Along the way, the beautiful sceneries of the lush hills captivated me. After I reached Pokhara, I was impressed with the beauty of the city. My actual trek started on the second day from Nayapul to Tikhedhunga.

As I trekked in the spring season, I could see the trails that were decorated with blooming rhododendrons. The breathtaking beauty of rolling hills with the backdrop of majestic snow-clad peaks captivated my heart. Mount Fuji Adventure had arranged the best accommodation facilities, and from most of the teahouses I stayed, I could see the stunning views of the beautiful mountains.

I met many other trekkers on the way, and we communicated throughout the journey, which made my journey more interesting. The most memorable part of my journey was hiking to Poon Hill to view the sunrise. The sight of sunrays painting the mountain, making it turn golden, was mesmerizing to watch. I could see some people getting excited while watching the sunrise, and some were getting emotional. The feeling is truly inexplicable in words; you must be there in person to feel its beauty. The beautiful waterfalls along the way captivated my heart, and exploring the charming Ghandruk Village gave me a chance to immerse myself in the local culture.

My guide and porter contributed a lot to making my trek memorable. I got an opportunity to take pictures of the most beautiful landscapes of the Annapurna Region. My guide took care of me throughout the journey. He explained the specialty of each place, helped me with navigation, and shared interesting stories, which made my journey more intriguing. Similarly, my porter carried the luggage during the trek, which allowed me to enjoy the trek without worrying about the burden of heavy bags. I truly admire the effort of the entire team at Mount Fuji Adventure, who provided personalized service to me and rewarded me with the memories that I will cherish for a lifetime.

Who can go for Poon Hill Trek?

The maximum altitude of Poon Hill Trek is 3210 meters. It is among the shortest treks of Nepal. Poon Hill Trek is suitable for hikers of all abilities and diverse age groups.

The trek is graded as moderately challenging. However, it is also considered the perfect choice for families who are looking for an accessible and well-maintained trail that allows them to complete the trek smoothly.

The trail is a mix of easy, flat, and steep, challenging terrains. During some sections of the trek, you will walk uphill, climbing many stone-paved stairs, which can be challenging for some travelers. So, it is important to take gradual ascents and take a short break to avoid exhaustion. You need to be reasonably fit and be able to cover the distance by walking for 4-5 hours on average during the trek. It is suitable for beginners if they are adequately prepared for it. You can also be physically prepared for the trek by incorporating training and exercises into your routine some weeks before embarking on the trek. Including strength, cardio exercises, and hiking weeks prior to going for an actual trek will help you build the strength and endurance required for trekking.

What makes Poon Hill Trek Special?

Enchanting Sceneries

The trail towards Poon Hill is breathtaking that rewards you with spectacular views of the pristine landscapes of the Annapurna Region. The trail of Poon Hills passes through beautiful water streams, lush forests, and verdant hills showcasing the grandeur of nature. You can witness the mesmerizing views of mountains like Gangapurna, Dhaulagiri, Annapurna I, Annapurna II, and many more, which will elevate your sightseeing experience. During the spring season, the trail is full of blooming rhododendrons, which makes the whole environment vibrant and creates visually charming scenery. The mesmerizing sceneries along the trail of Poon Hill will make the whole journey rewarding and memorable.

Cultural Immersion

Poon Hill Trek offers you numerous chances to explore the culture of the beautiful Village settlements of the Annapurna Region. You will pass through many villages where you can get a glimpse of the local culture and lifestyle. Along the trail, you come across beautiful Gurung and Magar Villages and get a chance to learn about their traditional mountain life. Interacting with the local people and holding interesting conversations with them will make your journey more rewarding. You will see traditionally built houses and many local handicrafts. This incredible adventure allows you a chance for cultural exploration, which makes your journey rewarding and enriching.

Beautiful Water Falls

You will come across many waterfalls along the trail of Poon Hill, which enhances your trekking experience. The waterfall flowing through lush cliffs creates a picturesque scenery, providing you with the wonderful opportunity to capture beautiful pictures. The soothing sounds of the waterfall create a calming atmosphere that makes you feel the tranquility of nature. Taking a short break to admire the beauty of the waterfall will make you feel rejuvenated. Many trekkers have described that they get immersed in the melody of the sounds of waterfalls, which is a healing element for them during the journey.

Travel Insurance

It is important to have travel insurance to go on any adventure in Nepal. As you will be trekking for long hours for almost a week in Poon Hill, it is crucial to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. It helps to protect you from the unexpected situation that may occur while traveling. So, it is highly advisable to select a plan that covers the following risks:

Medical Emergencies like accidents, illness or any injuries during the journey.
Lost or Stolen Baggage during the trek.
Emergency evacuation by Helicopter.
Trip cancelation or rescheduling.
Disruption of the trip due to unforeseen events.

Why trek with us?

We are a registered company specializing in designing customized itineraries by understanding your timeframe, and experience.
We offer you an organized trek, handling all the logistics of the journey.
Our guides are well-experienced in navigating the terrain and are good at communicating, which makes your trip engaging and interesting.
Our porters are helpful and will assist you in carrying the heavy equipment, ensuring you can get fully immersed in the journey.
Three board meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) throughout the journey.
We provide a personalized service, paying attention to your specific interests and preferences.
We encourage eco-friendly tourism through sustainable practices to conserve the environment and cultural heritage.

Altitude Sickness

The highest elevation of Poon Hill Trek is 3210m (10529 ft). Some people might get the symptoms of altitude sickness. When your body cannot adapt to the changing conditions, you may experience symptoms like headache, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. However, there are some ways and following that will help you minimize the risk of getting altitude sickness. Taking a gradual ascent will help you acclimate to changing altitude. Ensure proper hydration and take rest days in order to let your body adjust to the changing altitude. There are some medications like diamox that can be taken to minimize the symptoms of altitude sickness, which must be taken after taking advice from the doctor.

Packing for Poon Hill Trek

Packing list for poon hill trek

While embarking on Poon Hill Trek, you must pack all the essentials. Being well-equipped with all the essentials ensures your comfort and hygiene throughout the journey. In high-altitude zones, you may need some items urgently, and when you pack effectively, you will be able to find the items at the exact time when you need them. You must pack the necessary gear and equipment to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey. The weather fluctuations are common in high-altitude zones, so it is highly advisable to pack rain gear even if you are not traveling in the summer/monsoon season.

Packing warm clothes is crucial while trekking in Poon Hill. Packing Down Jackets will help you to keep yourself warm. Similarly, trekking gear like trekking poles, headlamps, and flashlights are important while traversing. Make sure to pack sturdy hiking boots that are sturdy and waterproof, which provides good ankle support. You will need to pack multiple pairs of undergarments to maintain proper hygiene. Pack comfortable hiking pants and moisture-wicking socks. A well-fitting backpack, along with a bag cover, will help you carry all the essentials.

You also need to pack food items like high-energy snacks and bars, which will help you retain energy during the trip. You need to maintain proper hydration while trekking, so carry a reusable water bottle that you can fill in the tea houses where you stop for lunch. Other essentials you must pack during the journey are a First aid Box, Sleeping Bag, Sunglasses, Sunhats, Sunscreen, Lip Balm, Tissues and Wetwipes, Soaps, Towels, Toothbrush and Toothpaste, etc.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What are the permits required for Poon Hill Trek?

There are two permits required for Poon Hill Trek, and they are:

Annapurna Conservation Area Project Permit

The permit fee for the Annapurna Conservation Area Project is NRs. 3000 per person (US$22.51).

Trekkers Information Management System Permit (TIMS)

The Trekkers Information Management System permit costs Rs.2000 (US$15)

Do you need prior trekking experience for Poon Hill Trek?

Poon Hill is a beginner-friendly trek. It is suitable for new as well as experienced trekkers. The trail passes through varied sections; and some sections may be flat, and some may be rugged and uneven. Even though prior trekking experience is not required, you should be reasonably fit to cover the distance by walking for hours on the hilly pathway. The trek is relatively easy, so it is suitable for all with the proper preparation.

What are the accommodation facilities like in Poon Hill?

Teahouses and Lodges are the most common form of accommodation you will find on the trail of Poon Hill. The rooms in the teahouses are cozy and well-maintained. You will get a bed, pillow, and blankets. The hot shower facilities are available in many tea houses, but you may need to pay extra. It is one of the most popular trekking destinations, and you will come across many beautiful tea houses and lodges during the trek.

What kinds of foods are available along the trail during Poon Hill Trek?

As there are many teahouses and restaurants along the trail, you will find a variety of food options. The most popular dish is Dal Bhat, which is a Nepali dish. It is the most common food, and it is liked by the majority of travelers. The dish is served warm, with side veggies and lentil soup, and is preferred by many trekkers. Along with that, many other food options are available, like Eggs(Fried and Boiled), Bread, Pasta, Noodle Soup, Fried Rice, Chapatis, and many more, which you can order as per your preference.

Is Wi-Fi service available in teahouses along the trail of Poon Hill?

Yes, many teahouses provide Wi-Fi services. However, you may have to pay extra for getting the services in some teahouses. Some teahouses also include a service within the room price. If the cost is included in the room price, then you don’t have to pay an additional amount of money, but if it is not included, then you have to pay. It totally depends on the facilities offered by the teahouses you will be staying in.

Is carrying cash necessary for Poon Hill Trek?

Yes, carrying cash is necessary for Poon Hill Trek. During the journey, there are many personal expenses. You may want to stop in for a small coffee break or make a purchase from the local stores. Many places still accept cash-only as the mode of payment. So, carrying cash is important during the journey.